GAIN sends disaster relief team to Saipan, Tinian

The Guam animal advocacy group called “Guam Animals In Need” has sent a disaster relief team to Saipan and Tinian to assist in recovery efforts following Super Typhoon Yutu.

The team will provide direct care to injured animals, aid with shelter repairs, and conduct damage assessments for the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Additionally, GAIN is delivering 200 lbs of medicine and medical supplies, and two pallets of pet food and animal shelter supplies.

“Thanks to the generosity of a number of individuals and local businesses, we’re able to provide much-needed medicine, food, and supplies to help the shelters destroyed by Super Typhoon Yutu,” said Alison Hadley, GAIN executive director.

The disaster relief team, which arrived on Monday and will work through the week, consists of Dr. Jonna Swanson (veterinarian visiting from Japan), Hadley, and Samantha Mullen, GAIN spay/neuter program coordinator. Technical assistance is also provided remotely by Disaster Operations specialists from Humane Society International.

“The extent of damage from Super Typhoon Yutu is shocking,” said Hadley. “Many animals were injured or killed by the storm, and both animal shelters incurred extreme damage. The road to recovery will be long and difficult.”

“We’re here because we can help,” said Mullen. “It’s so moving to see how connected our islands are, and the way the public steps up to support the recovery.”

Donations of dog and cat food (dry or wet), as well as other commonly used animal supplies such as kitty litter, can be made at the GAIN animal shelter.

Thanks to the generosity of Triple B Forwarders, GAIN will continue to ship pallets of donated food and supplies to Saipan and Tinian over subsequent months.

GAIN has also created a GoFundMe drive to help purchase much needed vaccines, medicine, and equipment for animal rescue groups and shelters in the CNMI. Go to www.tinyurl.com/yutuhelp or visit GAIN’s Facebook page (facebook.com/guamanimals) to donate.

“You can make a big difference in the lives of animals suffering after Yutu,” said Mullen. “The super typhoon destroyed so much, but with the public’s help, we can help Saipan and Tinian get back on their feet.”

The following businesses has made this relief effort possible: Triple B Forwarders, Guam Surgicenter, Animal Medical Clinic, Feathers N’ Fins Pet Shop, Micronesia Divers Association, and Triple J Auto Group. (PR)